while there's no official data on whether gun sales are up in the wake of the sandy hook tragedy, the fbi reports in the process, more criminal background checks this year compared to last and they need more money to conduct the criminal background checks that are required there and they're planning to ask lawmakers for half a million dollars to speed up the process, which used to take a matter of minutes and now takes roughly a week because of the backlog. by the way, heather, that process a free and has one colorado lawmaker who faces tougher gun restrictions suggesting that those who want a gun pay for the background check themselves. and so certainly cost is an issue in this debate. >> thank you very much, claudia, appreciate it. >> well, preparations are underway for the biggest new year's eve party on the planet. you're looking like at times square making sure that confetti will rain down on revellers and this year, well, a special tribute to dick clark. anna kooiman is in new york city with more details about dick clark and the celebration. >> we're out here on the plaza and ho